Understanding Bloating, Burping, and Flatulence: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Belching and flatulence? Hello Doctor, last April I experienced abdominal bloating and sharp pain in my right abdomen, along with harder stools. The liver transplant doctor suggested that it might be due to the surgery, causing my intestines to be less functional, leading to the ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Indeed, gastroesophageal reflux can cause a sensation of a foreign body in the throat, or persistent throat clearing. In severe cases, it can even lead to bronchitis or asthma. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.[Read More] Understanding Bloating, Burping, and Flatulence: A Gastrointestinal Perspective
Do I Need Further Testing for Positive Hepatitis B Surface Antigen?
Positive reaction for Hepatitis B virus surface antigen? Hello: 1. During a health check, liver function tests were normal (106/10/06). 2. However, a blood donation screening showed a positive reaction for Hepatitis B surface antigen (106/11/13). Should I go to the gastroenterolo...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. You need to complete the full set of hepatitis B tests first, and then we will plan follow-up treatment based on the results. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Do I Need Further Testing for Positive Hepatitis B Surface Antigen?
Understanding Right Lower Abdomen Discomfort: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Discomfort in the right lower abdomen? Hello doctor, I previously asked about discomfort in my right abdomen and later consulted a gastroenterologist who conducted several tests, including blood tests, stool occult blood tests, colonoscopy, gastroscopy, and an ultrasound of the u...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. Please discuss with your physician; there is no need to worry. Changhua Hospital is concerned about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdomen Discomfort: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Why Does My Stomach Still Hurt After Taking Medication?
The stomach still hurts after taking the medication? Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I went to see a doctor for bloating. The doctor prescribed me medication for a week. After taking it for two days, I experienced diarrhea the first time, and the next day my stomach started hurting...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Discomfort in the stomach area can stem from various issues, not just related to the stomach itself. Problems may also arise from the large intestine, liver, gallbladder, or pancreas, all of which can cause discomfort in this region. If you are not seeing a gastroenterolog...[Read More] Why Does My Stomach Still Hurt After Taking Medication?
Unexplained Hepatitis After Liver Biopsy: Causes and Concerns
Post-biopsy unexplained hepatitis? Dear Dr. Tsai, Hello! My husband, who is 36 years old, discovered an elevated GPT level of over 900 during a blood donation at the beginning of the year, which led us to start relevant examinations. Previously, his annual health check-ups had a...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. There are still cases of hepatitis of unknown origin in clinical practice. 2. The duration of inflammation depends on whether the underlying cause has been identified and addressed or excluded. 3. It is still possible for levels to fluctuate, as the cause has not yet be...[Read More] Unexplained Hepatitis After Liver Biopsy: Causes and Concerns
Can a 1.5 cm Liver Tumor Cause AFP Levels to Exceed 400?
Can a liver tumor approximately 1.5 centimeters in size cause the AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) level to rise to over 400? Hello Dr. Tsai, My father was first diagnosed with a liver tumor in 2006 and underwent radiofrequency ablation. For the following years, he was monitored and eve...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is not possible to estimate cancer markers based on tumor size. If it cannot be determined whether there is metastasis, we should first address the currently obvious targets and observe how the fetal protein responds. X-rays may have some blind spots, or the tumor could...[Read More] Can a 1.5 cm Liver Tumor Cause AFP Levels to Exceed 400?
Understanding Persistent Gas and Discomfort After Liver Transplant: A Patient's Journey
Stomach discomfort? Hello doctor, last April I experienced sharp pain in my lower right abdomen. In May, due to a positive fecal occult blood test, I underwent a colonoscopy which came back normal. The doctor suggested that I might have hemorrhoids and said it was not a concern. ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If both the gastroscopy and colonoscopy show no issues, I think there's no need to worry too much. Just relax and pay attention to your diet. If you feel particularly uncomfortable that day, consider whether it might be due to excessive stress or if you've eaten ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Gas and Discomfort After Liver Transplant: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Complex Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Seeking Medical Advice
Complex symptoms, I kindly ask the doctor to take the time to respond. Thank you? Hello, Doctor. First, I would like to apologize. Although I have already been examined, my symptoms have persisted for several months, so there may be multiple issues. I appreciate your time in resp...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
You may consider undergoing an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy; if no issues are found, it is likely a case of functional dyspepsia.[Read More] Understanding Complex Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Seeking Medical Advice
Understanding Abnormal Total and Direct Bilirubin Levels in Health Checkups
Abnormal total bilirubin and direct bilirubin levels in health check-ups? Hello, doctor. In my recent health check report, it was found that my total bilirubin and direct bilirubin levels were abnormal, with total bilirubin at 4.17 mg/dL and direct bilirubin at 1.59 mg/dL. Other ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, some individuals have congenital abnormalities in bilirubin metabolism, which may increase under certain conditions. It is recommended to monitor through follow-up blood tests under normal daily activities. If the levels continue to rise, further examinations may be necess...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Total and Direct Bilirubin Levels in Health Checkups
Understanding Right Lower Abdomen Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Dull pain in the lower right abdomen? Hello Doctor, I previously asked a question about a dull sensation in my lower right abdomen. I have undergone several tests, and the blood test results are all normal, including hemoglobin levels and liver function. I also had a negative sto...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
It is recommended to complete the examination; if there are no issues, it should be classified as a gastrointestinal dysfunction.[Read More] Understanding Right Lower Abdomen Discomfort: Causes and Concerns
Daily Belching: Understanding Causes and Further Testing Options
Belching daily? Since last July, I have been experiencing excessive belching multiple times a day. During this period, I underwent two gastroscopies in July and November, which revealed excessive gastric acid and bile reflux. My doctor prescribed pantoprazole and other gastric me...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It may be necessary to review your dietary and lifestyle habits to see if there are any factors causing gastrointestinal discomfort or irregular bowel movements. It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist to evaluate whether there are any issues related to the liver...[Read More] Daily Belching: Understanding Causes and Further Testing Options
Can A Acid Cause Stomach Ulcers? Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Gastrointestinal issues Hello doctor, I have been taking isotretinoin recently. Will this cause gastric ulcers? I have been taking medication for my stomach, but it hasn't been very effective.
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It should be the retinoid for treating acne, right? Medications of this type should be used with caution as they can cause dryness of the oral mucosa, dermatitis, and long-term use may affect liver function and lipid levels. There are also some rarer side effects. The pack...[Read More] Can A Acid Cause Stomach Ulcers? Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues
Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Insights
Dull pain in the right upper abdomen? Hello doctor, for the past week, I've been feeling a dull discomfort in my upper right abdomen, approximately in the area just below the sternum and slightly to the right, about two fingers above the navel. It's not exactly painful,...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir. You have liver, gallbladder, and gastrointestinal structures in the upper right abdomen. If you still feel unwell, you may visit the gastroenterology clinic for an ultrasound examination. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdominal Discomfort: Causes and Insights
Understanding Your Liver Biopsy Report: Key Insights on Hepatitis Types and Staging
Pathological Examination Report of Hepatitis Hello, Doctor. I recently underwent a liver biopsy at the hospital. After the examination, the physician only informed me of the presence of liver inflammation and recommended changes to my lifestyle, along with prescribing some liver-...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: 1. Mild steatosis and steatohepatitis (grade 1/3, stage 1/4). The report indicates: it is Grade 1 fatty infiltration and Grade 1 fibrosis, both of which are classified as mild. 2. Whether it is caused by hepatitis B or C depends on the blood test results. Fatty liver can a...[Read More] Understanding Your Liver Biopsy Report: Key Insights on Hepatitis Types and Staging
Understanding High Viral Load Despite Negative e Antigen in Hepatitis B Patients
e antigen negative Hello, Doctor. I have hepatitis B. Previously, my liver inflammation caused my AST and ALT levels to exceed a thousand, with a viral load of over a million and positive e-antigen. An ultrasound showed a 0.6 cm nodule. After taking Baraclude, my e-antigen turned...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, some patients with hepatitis B virus may undergo mutations to evade the immune system and relieve pressure, leading to the disappearance of the e-antigen, which allows the virus to continue replicating and causing liver inflammation. It is recommended that antiviral medica...[Read More] Understanding High Viral Load Despite Negative e Antigen in Hepatitis B Patients
Medication Concerns for Chronic Hepatitis B Patients: A Guide
Medication issues Hello Dr. Tsai. I am a carrier of hepatitis B and experienced acute hepatitis last year. I am currently taking Baraclude (entecavir) 0.5 mg. I have been on antihypertensive medication, including 80 mg of Amlodipine and 2.5 mg of Bisoprolol daily. Last week, I al...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Please be aware that during the initial phase of taking lipid-lowering medications, there may be some discomfort. Other medications should not have any impact. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-Shun.[Read More] Medication Concerns for Chronic Hepatitis B Patients: A Guide
Understanding Nausea: Beyond Gastrointestinal Issues and Treatment Options
Gastrointestinal issues Doctor, I would like to ask if nausea and vomiting seem to worsen in cold weather (or at night), aside from gastrointestinal issues, what else could be the cause? Two summers ago, I underwent an endoscopy and took PPIs for two months. I wonder if my irregu...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: In addition to gastroesophageal reflux, it is important to check for fecal impaction and any abnormalities in bowel motility. If problems persist, you may consult a gastroenterologist for an evaluation to determine if further examination is necessary. Changhua Hospital car...[Read More] Understanding Nausea: Beyond Gastrointestinal Issues and Treatment Options
Understanding Parasite Risks and Prevention in Taiwan's Gastroenterology
Parasite Consultation Hello Doctor: I would like to consult you about the current situation of parasites in Taiwan. Are they common? Yesterday, when I had dinner at a restaurant, I ordered pig liver soup, but I realized halfway through that it seemed undercooked (I had already ea...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: Please observe the clinical condition and check for any signs of abdominal pain. If there is abdominal pain, you may consult an infectious disease specialist for further examination. If there are no abdominal symptoms, there is no need to worry too much. Changhua Hospital ...[Read More] Understanding Parasite Risks and Prevention in Taiwan's Gastroenterology
Should I Transfer to a Major Hospital for My Stomach Ulcer Concerns?
Do I need to transfer to a larger hospital for a gastric ulcer? Hello Doctor, I have a history of duodenal ulcers and took medication for six months. For six to seven years, I have not experienced any ulcer flare-ups, but I often have bloating and stomach pain. Starting from Janu...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: You can return to the original hospital for a consultation to check for any other associated issues. If necessary, you may also request a referral from the original hospital and attach the reports to avoid duplicate examinations. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. ...[Read More] Should I Transfer to a Major Hospital for My Stomach Ulcer Concerns?
Understanding Bloating and Burping: Insights from Gastrointestinal Issues
Belching and stomach discomfort? Hello doctor, I have been experiencing discomfort in my lower right abdomen since April of this year. A stool test showed a positive reaction for occult blood. I underwent a colonoscopy in June, and the doctor said everything was normal. However, ...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: If the examination shows no specific issues, you should pay attention to the types of food you consume, avoiding beverages and foods that stimulate gastric acid secretion. Additionally, to prevent constipation and fecal impaction, which can alleviate adhesion symptoms, it ...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Burping: Insights from Gastrointestinal Issues